Hello my dear equin-friends, and welcome back to another edition of "A Year in the Life of Emma", brought to you from my stable in the charming village of Hayfield near Aberdeen!
It's hard to believe that we are in the year 0699. Feels like just yesterday we were in the 690s! It certainly has been a bustling time in the world of horses. As always, I try to keep you informed of the interesting goings-on that are happening, all through the lens of a humble draught horse's perspective. After all, we horses tend to experience history from a slightly different angle!
Life on the Farm
Life in Hayfield, nestled amongst the lush green hills of Scotland, has been as beautiful and busy as ever. As always, there is plenty of work to do on the farm.
I, for one, have been kept particularly busy these past few months, pulling the farmer's plough and cart. I’m strong, you know – a hefty grey mare with a beautiful white mane and tail that blows in the breeze, but I am also gentle and kind. This makes me well-suited for my farm work, and it brings me immense joy to contribute to my community. There's a sense of accomplishment that comes with feeling so connected to the land and the rhythm of life in the countryside.
Speaking of rhythm, we have a wonderful young foal, Penny, who was born a few weeks ago. She is a fiery chestnut filly, all playful energy and eager to learn. She is just discovering the world, trying out her long legs for the first time and finding joy in a simple nip at the grass or a playful nuzzle from her mother, Rose. I have taken a real liking to this little one, and I spend some of my leisure time, between hauling burdens, helping to teach her how to navigate the world as a foal. Penny’s future holds such boundless possibilities, and it gives me great comfort to see her so full of life.
Tales from the Market
Just the other day, our farmer, Mr. MacDonald, decided we needed to take a trip to the local market in Aberdeen. The carts were packed with fresh vegetables, cheese and even some wool from the local sheep. The atmosphere at the market was electric, the air buzzing with conversations and lively banter. It was amazing to see all the different people, from young lads with carts to seasoned merchants, with their baskets overflowing with local produce. We stood around for quite a while before heading back, just taking in the sounds and the energy. And then, in the most wonderful turn of events, as we were standing, all horses in a huddle – a beautiful young chestnut mare with the kindest eyes I had ever seen, joined the huddle, and a connection clicked! It wasn’t a neigh of excitement or friendship. It was more like an acknowledgement. A shared sigh and acceptance. I know she came to Aberdeen with her young lad from the countryside. It is a journey I can only dream of as I am here to serve Mr. MacDonald, but perhaps the time will come when he needs me for the long road.
Across the Mountains: A Royal Journey
Speaking of journeys, you will not be surprised to hear that in 0699, much of the talk was about the King’s new journey. He has been making plans for a royal tour of the north, and there is a certain excitement about it in the air. I must confess I don’t see the excitement, except for the buzz of anticipation about the market stallholders gathering in Aberdeen. You see, the King always has a particular affection for horses. Not just any horses, mind you. They must be beautiful, strong, and well-bred. They must carry a noble stature, with elegant necks, powerful limbs and a gleaming coat, and I hear he is looking to purchase a new stallion for his royal stables in Edinburgh. But then I am just a working horse. What would a King see in me?
News of Distant Lands: Tales from Travellers
A group of travelling merchants came through Hayfield a few weeks ago, their wagons loaded with goods from distant lands. They spoke of fascinating places, like the vast steppes of Russia, where wild horses roamed freely and the grasslands stretched as far as the eye could see. These wild horses – their courage, their speed! They’re something of a legend! They roam freely, a spectacle of natural beauty! One of the merchants, a friendly fellow with a kind heart and warm smile, shared some incredible tales of their journeys. He spoke about riding a swift chestnut gelding across the mountains of Spain, where the sun burned fiery orange and the air tasted of adventure. I must confess, for a fleeting moment, my feet wanted to leap into the unknown.
Horse Racing and a New Year’s Race
Of course, in these days of history, you will hear talk about races, always a favourite in any season! The local racecourse was packed with enthusiastic crowds eager to see their favorite steeds gallop to glory. The cheers echoed through the air, the anticipation palpable. Even in this part of the world, horses have become increasingly popular. And as I learned more about them, I noticed how they seem to move more fluidly than any of us on the farm – almost graceful, not as heavy-footed. I have to say, I find that very captivating and admirable. I would love to join a race, to run as free as the wind, just once!
This year, there was even a special New Year's race – a thrilling spectacle of speed and agility that kicked off the new year. There’s no stopping the enthusiasm, even when it’s bitter cold. The races at the new year are really about tradition and bringing good fortune for the year ahead, though, not really about the win or lose! It's truly a festive occasion. But, alas, I’m a draught horse, with no real racing blood in me. However, this gives me a renewed appreciation of those who race. Just being here with Penny and Rose, at peace with the world, is all I really need.
Reflections of Change and Growth
Life goes on, here in Hayfield. The seasons come and go, as does our busy calendar. Each day is a gift. The farmer tends to his crops and cares for his livestock. And we, the horses, work side-by-side with him, content in our work. The rhythm of life on the farm, the changing landscapes, the companionship of the animals, these are the things that bring a deep contentment. The world, beyond this peaceful farm, may hold its trials and tribulations. Yet, I can find a certain joy in knowing that we contribute something to the world, here, in Hayfield.
I leave you with this thought: Though we are simply horses, we are part of the great fabric of history. Our work, our strength, and our companionship weave their own unique threads into the grand tapestry of the times. We carry on, with our own wisdom, resilience and spirit.
Until next time, keep your hooves happy and your spirits high!
Love, Emma
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